Sudan armed group clashes with new PM over cabinet posts

June 24, 2025 (PORT SUDAN) – A powerful Sudanese armed group clashed with the country’s new prime minister on Tuesday over plans for a non-partisan cabinet, insisting it would keep its ministerial posts as stipulated in a 2020 peace deal and setting up a potential political showdown.

The dispute highlights the challenge Prime Minister Kamal Idris faces in forming a new government after he announced on June 19 his intention to form a 22-minister cabinet of independent technocrats, a move that would sideline political factions and armed groups from their previously held positions.

The Justice and Equality Movement (JEM), a key signatory to the Juba Peace Agreement, said it would not relinquish its posts.

“We affirm that our commitment to the Juba Peace Agreement… is a full commitment to its principles and entitlements, including the executive positions approved under it,” JEM spokesperson Mohamed Zakaria Farajallah said in a statement.

Under the 2020 accord, armed movements were granted 25% of government posts, which included six cabinet seats, three seats on the Sovereignty Council, and key regional governorships. Farajallah said the agreement ensures these posts are held until the end of the country’s transitional period.

The standoff focuses attention on JEM leader Gibril Ibrahim, who has served as finance minister since his appointment in February 2021 under the transitional government led by former prime minister Abdalla Hamdok.

The JEM spokesperson stated that consultations with the Prime Minister were still ongoing.

Recent local media reports have suggested Idris might move him to another post.